Purdy camp shock

Next week’s bout in Atlantic City against high profile Devon Alexander could propel the comparatively unknown Lee Purdy firmly into the limelight. Victory would have promoters discussing potential bouts against household names such as Mayweather and Pacquiao.

Given the steady progress Purdy has made since losing the British welterweight title on points to Colin Lynes it would not be a fair reflection to class this most recent opportunity as one from obscurity. However, it is fair to say even the Purdy camp was somewhat taken aback: “It was totally out of the blue” said Eddie Hearns, Purdy’s promoter yesterday.

Hearns revealed the details behind the turn of events which led to Purdy’s sudden and surprising elevation to boxing’s elite. Hearns described feeling “flat” upon hearing about the injury to Kell Brook which resulted in the fight being postponed for a third time. “I get a call from the States offering a world title challenge for the Essex lad [Purdy]. I called Tony Sims [Purdy’s trainer], he called Purdy, and about a third of a second later he’s called back to accept the challenge”.

Four straight wins, including the English welterweight title, and most recently, the IBF international welterweight crown, have pushed Purdy into this position. A fifth, against Alexander, would take him to the dizziest of new heights.